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Wednesday, April 30, is the first National Day of Action, a new community-based campaign to build a more secure and resilient nation by getting people to understand what disasters could happen in their communities and to take action to increase their preparedness.

Sponsored by America’s PrepareAthon, this first National Day of Action will focus on disasters that could occur in the spring including tornados, hurricanes, floods and wildfires.

”Taking a day to focus on being prepared for any emergency is good common sense”, said Metropolitan King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert. “We never know when a natural disaster could strike our area and advance preparation could make a difference in someone’s survival. I encourage everyone to take a moment and at least review their own personal and family safety plans both for home and at work”

Over 5 million people have signed up to take part in the National Day of Action, which consists of three parts: 

• Be Smart: Know your hazards in your community. Guides to learn how to prepare can be downloaded at http://www.community.fema.gov/connect.ti/cfghome/grouphome

• Take Part: Plan activities or take a few minutes to determine what you can do individually.

• Prepare: Practice a drill or have a discussion about preparedness. Participation can include being a part of community emergency planning, hazard-specific drills, group discussions, and exercises. 

There is specific information and resources for workplaces, houses of worship, community-based organizations, K-12 schools, institutions of higher learning, individuals and families on the website as well as a list of events scheduled.

”Disaster preparation is a smart move for all of us”, continued Lambert. “I know that I’ll be taking time tomorrow to review my personal safety plan and I hope everyone will also do the same. One step every week to buy some food item, store water, make a safety kit or learn more tips makes for greater peace of mind.”

More information on the National Day of Action can be found on the official website: http://www.community.fema.gov/connect.ti/cfghome/grouphome.

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